For real campers, it’s an adventure. Many people DREAM of camping in the White Mountains National Forest. If you only get one shot to camp in this forest, here are the best campgrounds in the white mountains, which campground are you going to choose?
For those of you planning a trip to the White Mountains National Forest, you’re in for a real adventure! The beauty and tranquility that you’ll find there simply cannot be captured in a photograph.
The only question is, where will you rest for the night when you get there? To take advantage of everything to see and do, you must track down the right campground.
Most of the campgrounds in the area are not only ideal for camping, but they also have several recreational activities and other attractions nearby your family and friends will enjoy.
These are 16 of the best places to camp when you’re visiting the White Mountains, National Forest.
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Where is the White Mountains, National Forest?
The White Mountains National Forest is located in New Hampshire and covers over 750,000 acres. It is the most visited national forest in the United States with over 6 million visitors each year.
There are many different RV campgrounds located throughout the White Mountains National Forest. However, we believe that the best RV campground is the one that is most convenient for you and your family.
1. Campton Campground
When you’re driving down the road and head into this campground, you will get excited! Located just off of Interstate 93 along the southern edge of White Mountains National Forest, Campton Campground has a handful of family-friendly activities and nature programs for visitors to look into.
AMENITIES
- There you will find 58 well-shaded sites available for a $25 fee a night and only $5 extra for each additional vehicle. While you can make a reservation for these sites online, some sites are on a first-come-first-serve basis.
- Their facilities provide drinking water, flushable toilets, as well as hot showers. Hiking and biking trails are conveniently close by, including the famous Appalachian Trail.
- Anglers will have the opportunity to catch brown bullhead, yellow perch, brook trout, and pickerel in the Campton Pond or the Mad River. Keep in mind that powerboats are not permitted in these waters.
Also, located in towns nearby is a water sports park, miniature golf course, along with gondolas and train rides. If you would like to contact the campground, you can reach them at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Close to stores
- Easy to find
- Peaceful, and clean
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Some campsites are close to the road, which means traffic, some campsites are close together
2. Cold River Campground
Want to camp at a small campground? No worries! There is a campground out there for everyone! Although Cold River Campground is one of the smallest campgrounds in the National Forest with only 14 sites, it’s certainly not one of the least. Fishermen and nature-lovers alike love this location, where it’s about 15 miles north of Fryeburg, Maine.
Besides fishing, other activities include birdwatching, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking. The campground also has running water and vault toilets, but you won’t find a dump station or showers.
AMENITIES
Reservations can be made for these sites from Memorial Day until Columbus Day, while there are also sites on a first-come basis. It will cost you $20 a night and $5 additional for a second vehicle. Call 603-447-2166 if you have any further questions about the campground. Camping white mountains is easier than you think.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Cabins are available to rent
- There is also a camp store
- Nice bathrooms, and showers
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Campsites are close together
3. Covered Bridge Campground
I get so excited when I see a Covered Bridge. They are so beautiful. Covered Bridge Campground is in a beautiful scenic location, especially should visitors decide to visit during the autumn season. One important thing that campers need to know is that on the way into the campground, you will come across a covered bridge with a 7’9” height restriction. Should your RV be taller than this, you will have to take the Passaconaway Road to reach the campground.
AMENITIES
- Inexpensive camping? Sign me up! The campground has 48 sites for a nightly fee of $25, and a $5 additional fee for an extra vehicle.
- There are vault toilets and a water hand pump available around the two loops, but there are no showers or dump stations present.
- There’s a fishing pier, along with the Swift River and Boulder Loop Trail, which are two great hiking trails located nearby. You can reach the campground at 603-447-2166.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Beautiful campground
- Great views
- Clear rules
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Can smell human waste if you camp downwind
- No showers
- Vault toilets
4. Dolly Copp Campground
By far the largest campground in the White Mountains National Forest, Dolly Copp Campground has over 170 campsites available. Some of which are reservable, and there are many that are on a first-come, first-served basis. The sites are surrounded by pine, spruce, and hardwood trees, while the campground itself rests at the base of Mount Washington.
If you’re into hiking, the 4-mile Daniel Webster Scout Trail is accessible in the park, while there are excellent fishing spots at the Culhane Brook and Peabody River also located in the campground. You might have the chance to catch some brook trout and other types of game fish.
AMENITIES
Some of the amenities that you’ll find there include water spigots, flushable toilets, and coin-operated showers. Standard sites start at $25 a night and an additional $5 fee for a second vehicle. Dolly Copp is located about 6 miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire. You can call the campground at 603-466-2713 if you need further information. This is an amazing place for camping in the White Mountains.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Super clean
- It’s off the main path
- Has great bathrooms
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Electricity is available but does cost extra
- No camp store available
Read more: Find Best GPS For Overlanding & Off-Road Adventures
5. Guyot Shelter
Should you be searching for a White Mountains backcountry camping experience that’s unlike any other, and one that also happens to have majestic morning views for you to wake up to, then pay close attention! Majestic morning views? Yes, please! You’ll want to sign up for this!
AMENITIES
- Guyot Shelter is located on the edge of the Pemigewasset Wilderness and can be reached by taking the Bondcliff Trail up to a height of 4,360 feet above sea level.
- Some of the recreational activities that you can enjoy in the area include hiking, mountain biking, boating, horseback riding, and climbing.
- Besides the shelter, there are only 7 tent sites available, all of which are on a first-come-first-serve basis.
So, you better get there early. From Memorial Day until Columbus Day it’s only $15 a night. WHAT?
After that, there’s no charge outside of their caretaker season. There are picnic tables and restrooms available, and campfires are permitted. If you would like to find out further information about Guyot Shelter, you can reach them at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The great views
- Cheap prices
- Plenty to do
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- It books up quickly
Also Read: 5 Miami Beach Campgrounds for Your Van or RV
6. Hancock Campground
Looking for a campground with a GOOD reputation? The Hancock Campground is another popular campground that serves as a gateway into the White Mountains National Forest. It’s situated 5 miles east of the town of Lincoln along the scenic Kancamagus Highway (Route 112).
AMENITIES
- One of the best perks about this campground is that it’s open year-round. While it is plowed out for visitors throughout the winter, be aware that services are closed during these months.
- There are 56 wooded sites available, including 33 drive-in sites and 21 walk-in tent sites for a nightly fee of $25, and an additional $5 fee for another vehicle.
- Picnicking, swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking are just a few of the recreational activities there.
Also, be sure to check out the Lincoln Woods Trailhead, where you’ll come across a neat 160-foot suspension bridge. The campground does not accept any reservations, as it’s on a first-come-first-serve basis. If you want to find out more information, contact the campground at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Pet-friendly
- Plenty of campsites
- Close to town
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Generators can only be run at certain times
7. Hastings Campground
Sometimes you need a little peace and quiet, am I right? Just to the south of Gilead, Maine, Hastings Campground is considered to be one of the more quiet and remote campgrounds in the White Mountains National Forest.
AMENITIES
- You will find 24 campsites around a loop, some that are reservable along with first-come-first-serve sites. They provide a hand pump for water and vaulted toilets. It’s only $20 a night, and $5 extra for an additional vehicle.
- Great fishing opportunities await you at Wild River and Evans Brook. Hiking and mountain biking are just some of the other things that you can do there.
Not far from there are 5 Nordic and 4 alpine ski destinations that offer year-round outdoor fun for families. For more information about the campground call 603-466-2713.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Nice place
- Nice host
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Brown tail caterpillars are popular at certain times of the year
Also Read: 11 Best Campgrounds in New Hampshire for Your Van or RV
8. Jigger Johnson Campground
A first come first serve basis isn’t always fun, unless you’re first! While Jigger Johnson Campground may have as many as 75 spacious suites available, keep in mind that they’re all on a first-come basis. And be warned, it’s an extremely popular campground, so get there early. It’s $25 a night, and an additional $5 fee for a second vehicle. There are flush toilets available, as well as hot showers for a $2.50 fee. Trust me, you’ll LOVE the hot showers and flush toilets.
AMENITIES
Hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and climbing are some of the favorite activities to do in the area. Some of the nearby attractions in the area include Jackson Falls, Cathedral Ledge, and Diana’s Baths. If you have any further questions and would like to reach the campground, the number is 603-447-5448.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Private
- Beach property close by
- Also has shower facilities
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- The campsite is super strict
9. Osceola Vista Campground
Listen up all you outdoor enthusiasts! Osceola Vista Campground is located in such a great area that campers can find all sorts of activities to do there, including hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, as well as golf courses nearby.
AMENITIES
You’ll have access to over 80 miles of hiking trails along with the stunning Sandwich Range Wilderness. There are also restaurants, and shops, along with the Waterville Valley Resort that provides a nighttime atmosphere.
The closest town to the campground would be Campton, which is about 15 miles to the southwest. Vault toilets and water pumps are available, while campfires and pets are allowed. For 1 to 10 people it’s $40 a night, and for 11 to 20 people you’re looking at $50 a night.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The campsite is primitive,
- A great view of the mountains
- Big open spaces
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- A few rowdy crowds
10. Passaconaway Campground
Not everyone LOVES rustic camping. BUT for those of us that do, this campground is for you! Another rustic camping destination that can be found along the scenic Kancamagus Highway is the Passaconaway Campground, which offers 33 campsites that are all on a first-come basis. There’s always the chance that the campground might be full, so make sure you have another plan just in case.
AMENITIES
- Both water spigots and vaulted toilets are available and it’s only $20 a night, and an additional fee of $5 for a second vehicle.
- Some of the nearby hiking trails in the area include Downes Brook Trail, UNH trail, and the Mt. Potash Trail. Bring appropriate hiking boots and warm clothes, and rain gear just in case the weather changes quickly.
- Fishing, mountain biking, and hunting are a few other recreational activities to consider.
The campground is located about 15 miles west of Conway, New Hampshire. If you’re needing further information, you can contact the campground at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Very clean
- Very peaceful
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Local firewood is a little expensive
11. Russell Pond Campground
Thanks to the State Fish and Game Department which is always restocking the pond with fish, Russell Pond Campground is nothing short of an angler’s and boater’s paradise. And it just so happens to come with a fabulous view too. Just think, all you have to do is fish, you don’t even have to restock the pond when you’re done. Fishing with a beautiful view is one of life’s most simple pleasures!
AMENITIES
- There are plenty of activities to choose from in the area, including kayaking, canoeing, swimming, hiking, and biking. Motorized boats are not permitted.
- Campsites cost $25 a night and an additional fee of $5 for a second vehicle. There are as many as 86 RV and tent sites available, and amenities such as flushing toilets and hot showers.
Reservations can be made for a spot, but there are also first-come sites available. The campground is located near Woodstock, New Hampshire, just off of Interstate 93. Should you need any further information, contact their campground at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Pet friendly
- A great place for canoeing
- Spending time on the water
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Can be hard to navigate where you’re going
12. Sugarloaf 1 Campground
If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful area to sprawl out underneath the stars, Sugarloaf 1 Campground may be your go-to campground. Who doesn’t prefer quiet? I know I do!
It’s only about a 10-minute drive southeast of Twin Mountain and nestled up against Mount Washington just to the west.
AMENITIES
- There are 29 sites to choose from, some are first-come basis while there are ones that you’re able to reserve. Their facilities include flushing toilets and water spigots. It’s $20 a night, and $5 extra for a second vehicle.
- There are several hiking trails in the valley and surrounding area to choose from, along with mountain biking, rock climbing, and fishing.
The New Zealand River is just a small walk from any campsite. If you’re hoping to reach out to Sugarloaf, you can contact them at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The campsites are big, close to a waterfall
- Super friendly host
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- No phone reception
13. Waterville Campground
I know some crazy people love to hike out there and I’m one of them! Should hiking be your primary focus when visiting the White Mountains National Forest, then Waterville Campground would make the perfect basecamp for your next adventure. There are hiking trails all over.
AMENITIES
But even if that doesn’t sound like you, there are fishing, swimming, and whitewater paddling opportunities there, along with horseback riding and rock climbing in the surrounding area.
- The campground is situated in the Waterville Valley and the Mad River runs along the backside.
- Waterville Campground has 27 campsites, where a standard site will cost you $20 a night and an additional $5 fee for a second vehicle.
There are hand pumps for drinking water, vault toilets, and also showers. If you have any questions or would like to find out more about the campground, you can contact them at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Access to Mad River
- Primitive location
- Quiet and clean campground
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Campsites are pretty close to one another
14. White Ledge Campground
Not too far from the town of Conway, the scenic White Ledge Campground has only 13 sites available that you won’t want to miss out on. Two hiking trails leave the campground, the 4-mile White Ledge Trail and the more difficult 4.5-mile Carter Ledge Trail that will take you to the famous Mount Chocorua.
Besides hiking, there’s also rock climbing, fishing, kayaking, swimming, horseback riding, and much more. Nature-lovers will be in awe of the scenic overlooks there.
White Ledge Campground has a nightly rate of $20, and an additional fee of $5 for a second vehicle. Toilets and potable water are provided there. If you would like further information about the campground, you can do that at (603) 536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Clean bathrooms
- The camping site was large
- Secluded
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- Outhouse
- Water spigot only
15. Wildwood Campground
Located 7 miles just to the west of Lincoln and on the western edge of the National Forest is the rustic Wildwood Campground. The surrounding scenery in this area is breathtaking, particularly during the fall when the fall foliage is taking place. Not that you want anything to take your breath away, but beauty is a good reason to not be able to breathe!
AMENITIES
- When staying at the campground you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife watching, amongst several others. To catch a better glimpse of Mount Moosilauke or the better possibility of spotting a moose, head west on Route 112.
- They have 26 sites available that come with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. There is also a picnic area and a pavilion that’s across the street from Wildwood.
You can stay at this campground for $20 a night, along with a $5 additional fee for a second vehicle. Should you need to reach out to this campground, you can contact them at 603-536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- It’s inexpensive
- Quiet
- A lake nearby
- Good picnic spots
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- There is no wifi or ability to get service
- No bathrooms
16. Zealand Campground
Some of the reasons people camp include beautiful scenery and plenty of time outdoors. Zealand Campground offers that and more. Plus, the price is JUST right for those wanting to camp on a budget!
AMENITIES
- Roughly 2 miles south of the town of Twin Mountain, Zealand Campground offers its campers beautiful scenery of the valley.
- The campground puts you conveniently close to Mount Washington and the Ammonoosuc River. Some of the other natural features in the Zealand Valley area include a waterfall, lake, and beach area, providing campers with swimming, boating, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching opportunities.
- There are only 11 first-come campsites in the loop, so be sure to have a backup plan if it’s full.
Camping fees? Camping fees are just $20 a night and $5 extra for a second vehicle. Vault toilets and a hand pump for drinking water are available. For more information about the campground, you can contact the White Mountains National Forest at (603) 536-6100.
WHAT WE LIKE
- The campground is super clean
- Has lots of open areas
- Great mountain scenery.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- There is a noise ordinance
- It can get really loud at night
- The campground is close to the main road
Campervan and RV Rentals Near White Mountains National Forest
Renting an RV is a great way to get all the benefits of an RV vacation without having to own one. It’s a perfect way to give RV living a trial run before making an investment and testing out the different models available to see what suits your family best.
At Outdoorsy, you can rent RVs and campers from other RVers. Click here to see what RV rentals are available in Near White Mountains National Forest.
If you already own an RV and don’t live in it full-time, you can make it available for rental too, so keep maintenance down and get a welcome boost to your income at the same time.
Should You Make Camping White Mountains happen? Yes!
Just remember to pay close attention to the forecast and have the right gear when you’re visiting, especially when you’re hiking up one of the mountains. This part of the country is known for its extreme weather that can pop up out of nowhere and is even responsible for taking many lives. Not to sound toooooo dramatic, but this warning is important!
These are 16 of the best camping destinations for you and your family to camp when you’re visiting the White Mountains, National Forest. Each of them has something unique to offer their campers, whether it’s the epic scenery or thrilling recreational activities that get you excited.
Which of these campgrounds are you considering visiting in the near future?
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